Several dozen Washingtonians gathered at The Jefferson Hotel Friday afternoon for lunch with Dominique Ansel, the mastermind behind the Cronut™ and author of the recently released book Dominique Ansel: The Secret Recipes.

Guests enjoyed a four course lunch, which opened on the sweet side with Dominique’s Kouign Amanns (think a sweet croissant) and were offered remarks by Ansel who spoke about the rise of the Cronut™ at his staple New York bakery and answered questions from attendees.

NBC 4 anchor Eun Yang admitted during the Q&A to being one of the many who have lined up to outside Dominique Ansel Bakery in New York where the breakfast pastry was first served. Chef Ansel also admitted that even his closest family and friends must wait in line.

Earlier in the day, Ansel toured and met with the fellows and staff of Dog Tag Bakery in Alexandria, Va., offering tips on how to be an entrepreneur and inventor.